Manganese-iron exploration and mining with handheld XRF

Importance of the Topic

Manganese and iron are fundamental components of modern industry, particularly in steel production and chemical manufacturing. Rapid, accurate field analysis of these elements can accelerate exploration, optimize mining operations, and improve resource management. Handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF) devices enable geologists and mining engineers to make informed decisions in real time without extensive laboratory support.

Objectives and Study Overview

This study evaluates the performance of a handheld XRF analyzer for on-site quantification of iron (Fe), manganese (Mn) and silicon (Si) in iron-manganese ore samples. By comparing portable XRF results with conventional laboratory assays, the goal is to establish the technique’s accuracy, precision and suitability for exploration and grade control in mining operations.

Methodology

• A Thermo Scientific Niton XL3t GOLDD Analyzer was operated in Mining Mode.
• Total measurement time per sample was 90 seconds (30 s with main filter, 20 s each with two additional filters).
• Thirty-three Fe-Mn ore samples from an active mine site were analyzed.
• Fourteen of these samples had reference laboratory assays for validation.
• One sample was measured eight times under identical conditions to assess repeatability.

Instrumentation

• Thermo Scientific Niton XL3t GOLDD Analyzer in Mining Mode calibration

Key Results and Discussion

• Correlation with laboratory data:

• Fe: R² > 0.99
• Mn: R² > 0.99
• Si: R² ≈ 0.95

• Precision (repeatability):

• Fe: relative standard deviation (RSD) ≈ 0.39%
• Si: RSD ≈ 0.27%

• The strong agreement between handheld XRF and laboratory assays demonstrates that field measurements can reliably substitute for or complement traditional methods during exploration and grade control.

Benefits and Practical Applications of the Method

• Real-time, nondestructive elemental analysis reduces sample turnaround time.
• Portable operation supports in-field decision making at exploration sites and crushing plants.
• Minimal sample preparation simplifies workflow and lowers operating costs.
• Broad elemental range (Mg to U) allows simultaneous multi-element screening beyond Fe and Mn.

Future Trends and Applications

• Integration of handheld XRF data with geospatial mapping and digital mine planning tools.
• Development of advanced calibration routines for complex ore matrices and trace-level elements.
• Automated data logging and cloud-based analytics for remote monitoring of exploration projects.
• Expansion of field-ready instruments to include complementary techniques such as LIBS or Raman spectroscopy.

Conclusion

The Thermo Scientific Niton XL3t GOLDD handheld XRF analyzer delivers rapid, accurate and precise results for iron, manganese and silicon in ore samples. Its high correlation with laboratory assays and excellent repeatability make it a powerful tool for exploration, grade control and environmental investigations in manganese-iron mining contexts.

References

No formal references were cited in the original document.